PRAIRIE FALCON.
355. Falco mexicanus. 18 inches.
This is quite an abundant species in some localities, and like the [Duck Hawk] in many ways is one of the most graceful, fearless and swiftest of the Falcons. A blackish patch on the sides of the throat; upper parts brownish with darker markings; under parts white, streaked with brown, much heavier on the flanks. Throat, clear white.
Nest.—Is generally placed on rocky ledges and cliffs, and sometimes in trees. Their nests are made of sticks lined with weeds and grass; three or four eggs of a reddish buff color, thickly blotched and sprinkled all over with reddish brown (2.05 × 1.60).
Range.—West of the Mississippi and from Dakota and Washington south to Mexico. Their food is mostly rodents secured on the prairies.
